PHI 300 Foundations of Jewish Ethics
- Description
- Curriculum
PHI 300 is a self-study course whose grade is based solely on the final examination. The course of study that is necessary to be prepared for the final examination consists of lessons based on the readings noted in this syllabus. Students should read the entire text of all the reading assignments. There are no formal assignments, but students are encouraged to take the practice quizzes associated with the readings to ensure that they have gleaned the appropriate knowledge to fulfill the course objectives and are well prepared for the final exam.
This course explores the major theories of Jewish ethical behavior, their sources, underlying premises, and how those theories are applied to Jewish law and practice. Specific topics include free will and determinism, the meaning of “good” and “evil”, morality and justice, guarding the commandments, giving rebuke, moral sentiments and obligations towards G-d and others, individual responsibility, acts of kindness and charity, repentance and others.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate in-depth understanding of Jewish ethics as presented in the Mishna of Pirkei Avos and its commentaries.
- Demonstrate a grasp of how ethical behavior is derived from the words of the sages.
- Analyze the axioms of the sages
- Explain underlying premises which build the foundation of the Jewish ethical system. apply the axioms to practical situations.
- Identify the sources of upon which the sages base their axioms,
- Apply the axioms to practical situations.
